Method for operating an ethernet optical area network (“EOAN”) over one more metropolitan areas

ABSTRACT

An Ethernet Optical Area Network (EOAN) system, and methods for implementing and using such an EOAN system, are disclosed. The EOAN system may be used to improve the speed and reliability of data communications networks for small to medium-sized companies in metropolitan area networks. The EOAN system provides end-to-end Ethernet protocol, enabling professionals to have high-speed data communications in real time. The EOAN system may be generally utilized for improving data communications between branch offices, home offices, campuses, and remote sites for a wide variety of industries. The present invention preferably includes a fiber optic ring, Network Operation Center (NOC), NOC architecture components, existing client equipment, and one or more Free Space Optic (FSO) devices, microwave communication technology, and/or data switching platforms to implement high-speed Ethernet-based connections such as within a specified metropolitan area. The preferred EOAN system preferably integrates a plurality of FSO, microwave, and/or fiber optic technologies with Ethernet protocol (Fast Ethernet, Gigabit Ethernet, 10 Gigabit, etc.) to provide data connection services.

This application is a continuation of U.S. Application Ser. No.10/001,524, filed Oct. 24, 2001, now U.S. Pat. No. 7,167,648.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The invention generally relates to the fields of voice and datacommunications, specifically metropolitan area networks, Ethernetnetworks and fiber optic rings. More particularly, the present inventionrelates to an Ethernet optical area network system and methods forproviding Ethernet protocol end-to-end and uses thereof.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Data communications is one of the fastest growing segments of thetelecommunications industry. Bandwidth, speed, latency, reliability,security, and Quality of Service (QoS) remain paramount concerns fordata communications networks. However, current data communicationnetworks connect to and often include the public telephone system, whichwas originally designed for analog (voice) communications. The publictelephone system places inherent limits on the development of efficient,high-speed, digital data transmissions.

Currently data routing through a central switching office occurs acrossa local loop, which often consists of Unshielded Twisted Pair (UTP)copper cable. As is understood by one skilled in the art, UTP cable is alow-frequency transmission media and has a limited frequency range ofapproximately 300 Hz to 3300 Hz. While data rates of 100 Mbps arepossible for short distances across UTP cable, 56 Kbps generally isconsidered the standard rate for analog telephone lines. Thus, thetransmission media most often used by the central switching offices oflocal telephone companies is not conducive to high-speed datatransmission.

While Local Area Networks (LANs) within company offices can operate atspeeds measured in Gigabits per second (Gbps), data transmissionsbetween offices over Wide Area Networks (WANs) and Metropolitan AreaNetworks (MANs) are subject to the speed constraints of the so-called“last mile.” The “last mile” refers to the physical copper connection oflocal access lines between the central switching office of a telephonecompany and an end-user, lines that typically are controlled by RBOCs(Regional Bell Operating Companies) and other telecommunicationscompanies. These companies have invested billions of dollars in buildingthe “last mile” with UTP cable, but such technology now acts as abottleneck to the transmission of large data files and streaming mediabetween offices outside the LAN. Currently there are few incentives forthe RBOCs and other telecommunications companies to rapidly implementnew technology solutions and replace this installed copper base of UTP.

Bandwidth is also a defining element in allowing state-of-the-artapplications to fully exploit their capabilities. When data is sent toand from branch offices, bandwidth is critical to making the filesuseful. As applications grow more complex, the various types of files(data, graphic, audio, video, etc.) have tended to grow larger andlarger. For example, medical networks require high-speed data rates toachieve timely and efficient data communications between separatefacilities, such as hospitals, clinics and research institutes, but UTPcable does not transmit well over anything but very short distances.Currently, data from most medical equipment, such as a MagneticResonance Imaging (MRI) system, cannot be efficiently transmittedbetween separate facilities because the data files (which frequentlyinclude numerous images) are typically too large. For instance, an MRIsystem, which may be used to help diagnose tumors in a cancer patient,requires specialized software (such as what is known as “syngo”) forhigh-resolution imaging and produces image files in a standard format(such as a DICOM file format) that may include hundreds of image files.The problem is the present bandwidth of most medical intranets cannotachieve the necessary speeds for efficient data transmission betweenfacilities outside of a LAN environment.

Remote hosting has also been restricted by the limitations of the publictelephone network. Typically, an Internet Service Provider (ISP) orother web hosting company provides a server for back-up service.Connectivity beyond the physical limitations of the 10/100 Base-TEthernet cables is available through dedicated lines, dial-up access,etc., but connection speeds drop dramatically once outside the Ethernetnetwork. For example, speeds within the LAN using Ethernet vary from 10Mbps to 10 Gbps, while speeds outside the LAN on UTP cable vary from 56Kbps to 45 Mbps. The legacy transmission media and its protocols of thepublic telephone system are the main reasons for the slower data rates.

The present invention attempts to address such limitations of currentdata communications between WANs and MANs with Ethernet Optical AreaNetwork (EOAN) systems. Such EOAN systems extend the LAN infrastructureof companies and organizations beyond the physical boundaries of theoffice or campus. The present invention is based on the Ethernetprotocol, which is the current standard transmission protocol for LANs.The present invention provides router-less and server-less networkaccess to outside networks at the same speed at which a computer insidean office is connected to a LAN. Such EOAN systems, for example, willallow businesses within the same metropolitan area to create privatenetworks with unparalleled speed and ease of management at a fraction ofthe present cost.

EOAN systems provide companies and organizations within the samemetropolitan area with high-speed data communications via Fast Ethernet,Gigabit Ethernet, and 10 Gigabit Ethernet. In accordance with thepresent invention, EOAN systems enable companies and organizations tocommunicate with each other at data rates that are potentially more than80 times current bandwidth connections. The present invention can attainsuch high-speed data rates by combining wireless connections, fiberoptics, and Ethernet capable switches to create a network that has theability to deliver Terabits of information over metropolitan areanetworks and that is cost-effective for small to medium-sizedbusinesses. The interconnectivity of EOAN systems provides datatransport for a variety of services, which may include private networksecurity, satellite office interconnectivity, carrier grade Voice overIP (VoIP), ultra high-speed Internet access, real-time remote imaging,high quality video conferencing, real-time distance learning,cooperative data environments, etc.

SUMMARY OF INVENTION

The present invention provides what is referred to herein as EthernetOptical Area Network (EOAN) system, and methods for implementing andusing such an EOAN system. In accordance with the present invention, anEOAN system is provided that may be used to improve the speed andreliability of data communications networks for small to medium-sizedcompanies in metropolitan area networks. An EOAN system providesend-to-end Ethernet protocol, enabling professionals to have high-speeddata communications in real time. As will be appreciated, the presentinvention may be generally utilized for improving data communicationsbetween branch offices, home offices, campuses, and remote sites for awide variety of industries. The present invention preferably includes afiber optic ring, Network Operation Center (NOC), NOC architecturecomponents, existing client equipment, and one or more Free Space Optic(FSO) devices, microwave communication technology, and/or data switchingplatforms to implement high-speed Ethernet-based connections within aspecified metropolitan area. The present invention preferably integratesa plurality of FSO, microwave, and/or fiber optic technologies withEthernet protocol (Fast Ethernet, Gigabit Ethernet, 10 Gigabit, etc.) toprovide data connection services that will enable users to connect atrates that may be potentially more than 80 times the current,conventional bandwidth connections.

An object of the present invention is to provide a system and methodsfor data communications, which integrate FSO, microwave, and fiber optictechnologies with Ethernet protocol (Fast Ethernet, Gigabit Ethernet, 10Gigabit, etc.) in accordance with the present invention.

Another object is to provide a system and methods for deliveringend-to-end Ethernet protocol (Fast Ethernet, Gigabit Ethernet, 10Gigabit, etc.) between a plurality of users in separate locations but onthe same optical network in accordance with the present invention.

A further object is to provide a system and methods for high-speed datacommunications for satellite office interconnectivity in real time inaccordance with the present invention.

Still a further object of the present invention to provide a system andmethods for high-speed data communications with network-wide Internetaccess, real-time remote imaging, carrier grade VoIP, high quality videoconferencing, and/or real-time distance learning in accordance with thepresent invention.

Yet another object is to provide a system and methods for high-speeddata communications and interconnectivity for a plurality of networks(i.e., legal, medical, insurance, etc.) in accordance with the presentinvention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The present invention may be more fully understood by a description ofcertain preferred embodiments in conjunction with the attached drawingsin which:

FIG. 1A is a diagram illustrating a conventional network topology fordata communications via a central switching office of a local telephonecompany;

FIG. 1B is a diagram illustrating an alternate embodiment of aconventional network topology for voice and data communications via acentral switching office of a local telephone company;

FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating a network topology for an EthernetOptical Area Network (EOAN) system in accordance with one preferredembodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 3A is a diagram illustrating an EOAN network in accordance with apreferred embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 3B is a diagram illustrating an EOAN network with a plurality offiber optic rings in accordance with another preferred embodiment of thepresent invention;

FIG. 3C is a diagram illustrating an EOAN network serving a plurality ofmunicipalities in accordance with another preferred embodiment of thepresent invention;

FIG. 3D is a diagram illustrating an alternate embodiment of an EOANnetwork serving a plurality of municipalities in accordance with anotherpreferred embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 3E is a diagram illustrating an EOAN network serving a plurality ofmetropolitan areas in accordance with another preferred embodiment ofthe present invention;

FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating NOC architecture for an EOAN system inaccordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention; and

FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating client architecture for an EOAN systemin accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

The present invention will now be described in greater detail withreference to particular preferred and alternative embodiments. Suchdescription is for a more complete understanding of the background,utility and application of the present invention, and is without beingbound by any particular theory or the like.

FIG. 1A is a diagram illustrating a conventional network topology fordata communications using a central switching office of a localtelephone company. In accordance with current conventions, user 10 iscoupled to central office 12, which is connected to ISP 14, Internet 16,and service provider 18. Typically user 10 is a single location businesswithout a Dedicated Access Line (DAL) such as a T-1 connection. Centraloffice 12 is a central switching office of a local telephone company.ISP 14 is an Internet Service Provider that provides a variety ofutilities and services to users (such as user 10, etc.) and is connectedto one or more Network Access Points (NAPs) typically on the digitalbackbone of the Internet. Service provider 18 preferably is a companythat provides data and/or services to a plurality of users (such as user10, etc.) via the Internet (such as Internet 16). Within such aconventional network, user 10 may access Internet 16 and send data toservice provider 18 (and vice versa).

As illustrated in FIG. 1A, in order for user 10 to transmit/receive datato and from Internet 16, user 10 must connect to ISP 14 via centraloffice 12. For example, in accordance with current conventions, user 10transmits data 11 via UTP cable 20 (e.g., providing a standard telephoneconnection at up to 56 Kbps, etc.) to central office 12, which routesdata 11 via UTP cable 22 (e.g., providing large bandwidth connection viaT-1 at 1.54 Mbps, etc.) to ISP 14, which then routes data 11 back viaUTP cable 24 to central office 12, which then transmits data 11 viafiber optic cable 26 (e.g., providing carrier class connection via OC-12at 622 Mbps, etc.) to Internet 16. Thus, as noted in the example, aminimum of four hops across the network generally is required for data11 of user 10 to reach Internet 16.

Data communications through a central switching office of a localtelephone company (such as central office 12) poses several limitationsto high-speed data transmission. For example, in accordance with currentconventions illustrated in FIG. 1A, central office 12 typically uses UTPcable for data routing across a local loop. As will be understood by oneskilled in the art, UTP cable has a frequency range basically limited toapproximately 300 Hz to 3300 Hz. In certain circumstances (such as forsingle location businesses without Dedicated Access Lines or DALs,etc.), digital signals from user 10 must be converted with a modem toanalog signals before being transmitted to central office 12. Forinstance, user 10 modulates (i.e., converts) data 11 and transmits data11 via UTP cable 20 to central office 12, which routes data 11 via UTPcable 22 to ISP 14, wherein ISP 14 receives data 11, demodulates dataand routes it via UTP cable 24 back to central office 12, which thenroutes data 11 via fiber optic cable 26 to Internet 16.

As further illustrated in FIG. 1A, service provider 18 may transmit datato user 10 and vice versa. In order for service provider 18 to transmitdata and provide services to user 10, for example, data of serviceprovider 18 must make eight hops across the network. Accordingly,service provider 18 must transmit data 19 to central office 12, whichroutes data 19 to ISP 14, which routes data 19 back to central office12, which then transmits data 19 to Internet 16, which sends data backto central office 12, which routes data 19 to ISP 14, which routes data19 back to central office 12, which finally routes data 19 to user 10.Accordingly, eight hops are required for service provider 18 to senddata 19 to user 10. Moreover, the data must be converted several timesduring the process. Such data conversions not only slow datatransmission, but also may cause jitter in audio communications becauseof the latency. For example, service provider 18 preferably transmitsdata 19 via UTP cable 28 (e.g., providing large bandwidth connection viaT-1 at 1.54 Mbps) to central office 12, which routes data 19 via UTPcable 30 (e.g., providing T-1 connection at 1.54 Mbps) to ISP 14,wherein ISP 14 receives data 19 through one or more servers that routedata 19 via UTP cable 32 (e.g., providing T-1 connection at 1.54 Mbps)to central office 12, which then routes data 19 via fiber optic cable 34(e.g., providing OC-12 connection at 622 Mbps) to Internet 16. (As willbe understood by one skilled in the art, Internet 16 may route dataacross the NAPs of the digital backbone of the Internet through multipleMetropolitan Area Exchanges (MAEs) back to central office 12.)Accordingly, Internet 16 then routes data 19 via fiber optic cable 36(e.g., providing OC-12 connection at 622 Mbps) to central office 12,which routes data 19 via UTP cable 38 (e.g., providing T-1 connection at1.54 Mbps) to ISP 14, which then transmits data 19 via UTP cable 40 tocentral office 12, which routes data 19 via UTP cable 42 (e.g.,providing a standard telephone connection at a rate of up to 56 Kbps) touser 10.

FIG. 1B is a diagram illustrating an alternate embodiment of aconventional network topology for voice and data communications using acentral switching office of a local telephone company. Such aconventional network provides separate voice and data communicationsacross the Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN) and the Internet viaa central switching office of a local telephone company. In accordancewith current conventions, user 46 connects to central office 12, whichis coupled to ISP 14, user 48, and PSTN 50. Preferably users 46-48 aresingle location businesses without a Dedicated Access Lines (DALs), andcentral office 12 is a central switching office of a local telephonecompany. ISP 14 preferably is an Internet Service Provider that providesa variety of utilities and services to a plurality of users (such asusers 46-48) and is connected to one or more NAPs on the digitalbackbone of the Internet. PSTN 50 preferably includes local, longdistance, and international telephone companies (such as RBOCs, etc.)and their Local Access and Transport Areas (LATAs). Within such aconventional network, user 46 may place a telephone call via centraloffice 12 through PSTN 50 and may transmit data through central office12 to user 48.

As illustrated in FIG. 1B, in order for user 46 to transmit/receive datato and from another user (such as user 48), user 46 must have access toan ISP (such as ISP 14) via a central switching office of a localtelephone company (such as central office 12). For example, inaccordance with current conventions, user 46 transmits data 47 via UTPcable 52 (e.g., providing a standard telephone connection at a rate ofup to 56 Kbps) to central office 12, which routes data 47 across UTPcable 54 (e.g., providing T-1 connection at 1.54 Mbps, etc.) to a routerat ISP 14, which then routes data 47 via fiber optic cable 56 (e.g.,providing OC-3 connection at 155 Mbps, etc.) to Internet 16, whichroutes data 47 back via fiber optic cable 58 (e.g., providing OC-3connection at 155 Mbps, etc.) to ISP 14, which sends data 47 via UTPcable 60 (e.g., providing T-1 connection at 1.54 Mbps, etc.) to centraloffice 12, which then sends data 47 via UTP cable 62 (e.g., providing astandard telephone connection at a rate of up to 56 Kbps, etc.) to user48. A minimum of six hops across the network typically is required fordata 47 to reach user 48 from user 46.

Moreover, when data (such as data 47) is sent from one or more users(such as user 46) via the central office (such as central office 12) toan ISP (such as ISP 14), for instance, the data is typically modulatedinto an analog signal before being transmitted to the central office.Likewise, for example, when data (such as data 47) is being sent fromISP 14 to user 48, the data must be modulated by the ISP before beingtransmitted to the user (such as user 48), who must in turn demodulate(via CSU/DSU) the data upon receipt. Thus, six hops and multiple dataconversions typically are required for one user to send data to anotheruser.

As further illustrated in FIG. 1B, a user (such as user 46) can place alocal or long distance call separately through a central switchingoffice of a local telephone company (such as central office 12). Inspite of recent trends toward voice/data convergence, voice and datacommunications often remain separated for efficiency of high-speedtransmissions across WANs and MANs. For instance, user 46 makes atelephone call and sends a signal via analog line 64 to central office12, which routes the signal via analog line 66 to PSTN 50, which thenmakes the connection and sends back a signal via analog line 68 tocentral office 12, which routes signal via analog line 70 to user 46 tocomplete the connection.

Although FIGS. 1A and 1B illustrate a single central office forbackground discussion purposes, it will be appreciated that suchconventional network topologies utilize numerous interconnected centraloffices with similar limitations and operational inefficiencies.

FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an exemplary embodiment of a networktopology for an Ethernet Optical Area Network (EOAN) system inaccordance with the present invention. In a preferred embodiment, EOANsystem 1 is a private data network (incorporating voice communications)that provides network connectivity with the geographical range of a MAN,but primarily uses Ethernet protocols for data communications.Accordingly, it should be noted that data preferably includes aplurality of data types (data, graphic, audio, video, etc.) that may besuitable for data communication via Ethernet protocols. Moreover, datacommunications as used hereinafter may incorporate voice communicationsand virtually all types of data. In accordance with the presentinvention, EOAN system 1 utilizes standard, high-speed Ethernetprotocols (e.g., Fast Ethernet, Gigabit Ethernet, 10 Gigabit Ethernet,etc.), which allows for internetworking of data transmission devices. Aswill be understood by one skilled in the art, these protocols enablevery high-speed data communications with real-time streaming media.

In accordance with the present invention, user 72 is preferablyconnected to EOAN NOC 76, which is a Network Operations Center (NOC)that provides data switching and management functions. (EOAN NOC. 76will be described in further detail in connection with FIG. 4.) Users72-74 preferably are single location businesses, whereas central office12 is a central switching office of a local telephone company. It shouldbe noted that users refer to clients and their existing technology(which may include, for example, Ethernet switches, hubs, servers, andother devices necessary for the client's LAN/data network). ISP 14provides a variety of utilities and services to a plurality of users(i.e., user 72, user 74, etc.) and is connected to one or more NAPs onthe digital backbone of the Internet. PSTN 50 preferably includes local,long distance, and international telephone companies and their LATAs.Data (such as data 73) may include a plurality of data files (audio,video, graphic, data, etc.) and can be transmitted/received in aplurality of protocols (e.g., Ethernet, ATM, etc., although in preferredembodiments an Ethernet-based protocol is used) via a plurality oftransmission media (such as FSO, optical signals, microwaves, infraredlight, etc.) and physical pathways (such as UTP, fiber optic cable,etc.). Optical network connections 80-88 and 94 preferably consist of aplurality of types of physical pathways and transmission media (such asFSO, fiber optic cable, microwaves, infrared light, etc.) that may beused to transmit/receive data. Fiber optic cable 90 (e.g., OC-3, OC-12,etc.) is a conventional fiber optic cable. NAP connection 92 provides aconnection to a Network Access Point on the digital backbone atbroadband speeds (e.g., DS3, OC-3, OC-12, etc.). Network connection 96preferably includes a wide range of types of transmission media that maybe used to transmit/receive data preferably via a suitabletelecommunications protocol (including UTP cable, FSO, fiber opticcable, microwaves, infrared light, etc.), and preferably is a fiberoptic connection using a telecommunications protocol such as OC-3 toenable a suitable, high speed connection between EOAN NOC 76 and centraloffice 12. PSTN backbone connection 98 preferably provides a connectionto a backbone of the Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN) at aplurality of speeds.

In accordance with the present invention, user 72 is coupled via anoptical network connection to EOAN NOC 76, which in turn is connected tocentral office 12, user 74, and ISP 14. Unlike conventional MANtopologies, user 72 can transmit data 73 via Ethernet protocol throughEOAN NOC 76 to user 74 with only two hops across the network. In theprocess, data 73 of user 72 does not have to leave the local EOAN.Moreover, user 72 can access Internet 16 via ISP 14 in three hops or canplace a telephone call through PSTN 50 via central office 12 in threehops at very high speeds.

As illustrated in FIG. 2, unlike conventional MAN and WAN-basednetworks, a user (e.g., user 72) preferably transmits data (e.g., data73) to one or more users (e.g., user 74) without having to transmit datathrough a central switching office of the local telephone company (e.g.,central office 12) or without having to access an ISP (e.g., ISP 14). Inan exemplary embodiment of the present invention, user 72 transmits data73 via optical network connection 80 to EOAN NOC 76, which routes data73 via optical network connection 82 to user 74. It should be noted thatoptical network connections 80-82 preferably provide high-speed Ethernetconnections (i.e., Fast Ethernet, Gigabit Ethernet, 10 Gigabit Ethernet,etc.) and attach to the LANs or other data networks of users 72 and 74.In accordance with the present invention, user 72 may transmit data 73to user 74 with only two hops across the network of EOAN system 1. Inaddition, data 73 does not need to be converted or modulated to betransmitted. Moreover, users may communicate bi-directionally (i.e.,exchange data, send e-mail, make telephone calls, etc.) with each other.For example, user 74 may transmit data to user 72. For example, user 74may send data 77 via optical network connection 84 to EOAN NOC 76, whichroutes data 77 via optical network connection 86 to user 72. Thus, usersmay also transmit data to each other with two hops across the network.

As further illustrated in FIG. 2, a user (e.g., user 72) may preferablysend data via the Internet (e.g., Internet 16) without having totransmit the data through a central switching office (e.g., centraloffice 6). In an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, user 72transmits data 75 via optical network connection 88 to EOAN NOC 76,which routes data 75 via fiber optic cable 90 to ISP 14, which in turnsends data 75 via NAP connection 92 to Internet 16. The presentinvention requires only three hops across the network of EOAN system 1for data 75 from user 72 to reach Internet 16. Moreover, in accordancewith the present invention, for a user to access the Internet, data(such as data 75) does not need to be modulated prior to transmissionbecause it is being transmitted via an Ethernet protocol. In accordancewith the present invention, users may communicate bi-directionally witheach other.

In accordance with the present invention as illustrated in FIG. 2, auser (e.g., user 72) may also place a phone call via a NOC (e.g., EOANNOC 76) through a central switching office (e.g., central office 12). Inan exemplary embodiment of the present invention, user 72 may transmitvoice data via optical network connection 94 to EOAN NOC 76, which mayconvert the voice data to telecommunication protocols via an IP-enabledPBX and transmit the voice signal via (preferably) optical networkconnection 96 to central office 12 via a suitable telecommunicationsprotocol, which then routes the voice signal via optical networkconnection 98 to PSTN 50. In an alternate embodiment of the presentinvention, user 72 may transmit voice data using a suitabletelecommunication protocol directly to central office 12 via EOAN NOC76.

FIG. 3A is a diagram illustrating an exemplary embodiment of EOAN system1. In accordance with the present invention, EOAN fiber ring 100 is acomponent of an Ethernet-based network and consists of a fiber opticring, comprised of groupings of optical fibers (e.g., 144 opticalfibers, etc.). Preferably EOAN fiber ring 100 connects a plurality ofusers, facilities, and/or devices, and is a self-healing fiber opticring utilizing one or more pairs of fibers, wherein data is sent in bothdirections simultaneously around the ring to provide redundancy in casea connection is severed. For example, EOAN fiber ring 100 may be acontinuous fiber optic ring physically analogous to a SynchronousOptical Network (SONET) ring.

In accordance with the present invention, central office 12, EOAN NOC76, and a plurality of data transmission equipment, such as radio towers(e.g., radio tower 110) and Free Space Optic (FSO) devices (e.g., FSO108), are coupled to EOAN fiber ring 100. While not expressly shown orcentral to the present invention, connections to EOAN fiber ring 100preferably are made by what are typically known as fiber optic lateralsto suitable optical multiplexers or switches. In a typical arrangement,a physical break in the transmit/receiver fiber pair may be made withlateral fibers optically coupled to and extending from the broken fibersto the optical multiplexer/switch, which selectively (such as bywavelength) may receive or transmit or forward optical data along thefiber ring (the use of such a multiplexer or switch, particularlyoptical switches, is discussed later in connection with FIGS. 4 and 5).What is important is that suitable fiber optic connections be made toEOAN fiber ring 100 in order for the EOAN-type of network as describedherein to be implemented and operated as described herein.

Preferably EOAN NOC 76, which is a NOC that provides data switching andmanagement functions, is linked to ISP 14, which provides utilities andservices to a plurality of users and is coupled to one or more NAPs on adigital backbone of the Internet. (It should be noted that in accordancewith the present invention, an additional redundant NOC may be coupledto EOAN fiber ring 100 in order to provide redundancy; the additionalredundant NOC preferably provides equivalent functionality in the eventthat EOAN NOC 76 fails or is otherwise unable to provide the routing,management and control functions as described herein.) ISP 14, in turn,is coupled to Internet 16. Central office 12 is a central switchingoffice of a local telephone company. Preferably FSO 106-108 are eitherPoint-to-Point (P2P) or Point-to-Multipoint (P2M) laser devices thatsupport Ethernet signaling natively and provide a continuous opticalconnection. Radio tower 110 and transceiver 112 transmit/receivemicrowave frequencies to and from users, transceivers, and/or otherradio towers via P2P or P2M delivery method. Service provider 18preferably is a company that provides data and/or services to aplurality of users (such as users 102-104, etc.) and is connected toEOAN fiber ring 100 preferably via a fiber optic lateral. In addition,user 102 preferably is a single location business located within thegreater metropolitan area and connected to EOAN fiber ring 100 via FSO106; user 104 is preferably a remote user located within a certaindistance (wherein the certain distance falls within the current limitsof microwave technology, i.e., within 35 miles, etc.) from the greatermetropolitan area and is connected to EOAN fiber ring 100 via microwavetransceiver (such as transceiver 112). User 103 preferably is a singlelocation business connected to EOAN fiber ring 100 via a fiber opticlateral.

In an alternate preferred embodiment of the present invention, ISP 14may be coupled directly to EOAN NOC 76, wherein, for example, theequipment in EOAN NOC 76 and ISP 14 may be co-located in the samefacility.

It is important to note that while the protocol used to transmit/receivedata throughout EOAN system 1 is primarily an Ethernet protocol, otherprotocols may be used in particular circumstances in accordance with thepresent invention. For instance, telecommunications protocols may beused to transmit voice data to central office 12 when required by auser. For example, such voice data may be transmitted to/from centraloffice 12 in accordance with a suitable telecommunications protocol(such as an OC-3 protocol) via the same fiber optic ring. In onepreferred embodiment, EOAN NOC 76 provides voice data to/from centraloffice 12 using a separate wavelength of the WDM wavelengths utilized totransmit data over EOAN fiber ring 100. With such an embodiment, onewavelength may in effect be dedicated for communications with centraloffice 12 utilizing a suitable telecommunications protocol, while allother data transmissions within the EOAN preferably use anEthernet-based protocol. It also should be noted that the physicaltransmission media may change depending on particular circumstances.

In accordance with the present invention, in order for one or more usersin a metropolitan area to send data to one or more users in a remotelocation, the user in a metropolitan area (such as user 102) maytransmit data via EOAN system 1 to one or more users in a remotelocation (such as user 104) via a plurality of data transmissiontechnologies using an Ethernet protocol. In an exemplary embodiment ofthe present invention, user 102 is coupled to FSO 106, which, as will beunderstood by one skilled in the art, may be implemented so as to notrequire protocol conversion and may be implemented within a certainradius (wherein the certain radius falls within the current limits ofFSO transmission technology, i.e., within 2-kilometer radius, etc.).User 102 preferably transmits data via an Ethernet protocol via anoptical network connection (such as fiber optic cable, etc.) or LANcable to FSO 106, which sends optical signals to FSO 108, which iscoupled to EOAN fiber ring 100 (see e.g., FIG. 5). FSO 108 preferablyreceives the data and transmits them across EOAN fiber ring 100 to EOANNOC 76, which routes the optical signals to radio tower 110, where theoptical signals are converted to microwave signals and sent totransceiver 112, which converts the microwave signals to electricalsignals and sends the data preferably via standard LAN cable to user104. In accordance with the present invention, users may communicatebi-directionally with each other, and preferably using an Ethernet-basedprotocol as described herein.

As will be understood by one skilled in the art, microwave transmissiondevices can support Ethernet protocols natively, can exceed 2.4 Gbps,and can have an extensive transmission range of up to 35 miles radius.Thus, unlike conventional MAN technologies, user 102 preferably cantransmit data to user 104 via EOAN system 1 in approximately four hops(as illustrated by the dashed lines) while effectively maintaining alocal Ethernet connection.

As further illustrated in FIG. 3A, users (such as user 102) may alsoaccess the Internet (such as Internet 16) via EOAN system 1. In anexemplary embodiment, user 102 transmits data via Ethernet protocol viaoptical fiber or LAN cable to FSO 106, which converts electrical signalsto optical signals and sends the data to FSO 108, which is coupled toEOAN fiber ring 100. FSO 108 transmits the optical signals via EOANfiber ring 100 to EOAN NOC 76, which routes the data to ISP 14 and ontoInternet 16. Such data transmissions do not require the loss of theEthernet connection.

In accordance with the present invention, one or more users (such asuser 102, etc.) may also connect telephone calls via EOAN fiber ring 100with EOAN system 1. In an exemplary embodiment, user 102 transmits voicedata using an Ethernet protocol via optical fiber or LAN cable to FSO106, which converts electrical signals to optical signals and sends thevoice data to FSO 108, which is coupled to EOAN fiber ring 100. FSO 108receives the optical signals and transmits them across EOAN fiber ring100 to EOAN NOC 76, which converts the Ethernet protocols intotelecommunication protocols preferably with an IP-enabled PBX and routesthe voice data preferably via EOAN fiber ring 100 (such as using asuitable telecommunications protocol and preferably using a dedicatedwavelength or channel, as previously described) to central office 12,which is coupled to PSTN 50 and connects the telephone call (as will beappreciated by those of skill in the art, return signals/datatransmissions complete the telephone call). Alternatively, voice datamay be coupled between EOAN NOC 76 and central office 12 using aseparate connection (e.g., UTP cable, fiber optic cable, etc.), and notutilizing EOAN fiber ring 100 as the transport medium for suchconnection.

In accordance with an alternate embodiment of the present invention,user 102 may transmit voice data using telecommunication protocols viaoptical fiber or LAN cable to FSO 106, which converts electrical signalsto optical signals and transmits the voice data to FSO 108, which isconnected to EOAN fiber ring 100. FSO 108 transmits the data across EOANfiber ring 100 to EOAN NOC 76, which routes the voice data usingtelecommunication protocols to central office 12 (such as previouslydescribed), which is coupled to PSTN 50 and connects the telephone call.

FIG. 3B is a diagram illustrating an exemplary embodiment of a pluralityof fiber rings connected via EOAN system 1. In accordance with thepresent invention, EOAN fiber ring-1 114, EOAN fiber ring-2 116 and EOANfiber ring-N 118 are fiber optic rings that connect a plurality ofusers, facilities, and/or devices and have properties consistent withEOAN fiber ring 100, such as described in conjunction with FIG. 3A. Inaccordance with the present invention, central office 12, ISP 14, EOANNOC 76, redundant NOC 126, and a plurality of users, such as user 120,are coupled to EOAN fiber ring-1 114; EOAN NOC 76, redundant NOC 126,passive NOC 128, passive redundant NOC 130, and a plurality of users,such as user 122, are coupled to EOAN fiber ring-2 116; and passive NOC128, passive redundant NOC 130, and a plurality of users, such as users124, are coupled to EOAN fiber ring-N 118. Preferably EOAN NOC 76provides data switching and management functions and is coupled to bothEOAN fiber ring-1 114 and EOAN fiber ring-2 116. ISP 14, which isconnected to EOAN fiber ring-1 114 and Internet 16, provides utilitiesand services to a plurality of users and is coupled to one or more NAPson a digital backbone of the Internet. Central office 12 is a centralswitching office of a local telephone company coupled to EOAN fiberring-1 114. Redundant NOC 126 preferably is a NOC that providesequivalent data switching and management capabilities as EOAN NOC 76 andserves as a redundant NOC for EOAN NOC 76. Preferably user 120 isconnected to EOAN fiber ring-1 114 via optical network connection (e.g.,fiber optic cable, etc.), while user 122 is connected to EOAN fiberring-2 116 via optical network connection (e.g., fiber optic cable,fiber optic lateral and optical multiplexer or switch, etc.). It isimportant to note that EOAN fiber ring-1 114 and EOAN fiber ring-2 116are coupled together via both EOAN NOC 76 and redundant NOC 126. Thus,in accordance with the present invention, one or more fiber rings may becoupled together using one or more NOCs.

As further illustrated in FIG. 3B, in an alternate preferred embodimentof the present invention, a passive NOC (such as passive NOC 128), whichserves as a two-way repeater, may be implemented at a node connectingone or more fiber rings (such as EOAN fiber ring-2 116 and EOAN fiberring-N 118). Redundant passive NOC 130 may also be coupled to EOAN fiberring-2 116 and EOAN fiber ring-N 118 in order to provide redundancy;redundant passive NOC 130 preferably provides equivalent functionalityto passive NOC 128.

It is important to note that a plurality of fiber rings may be connectedto one NOC, but additional NOCs (such as redundant NOCs, redundantpassive NOCs, etc.) are recommended for redundancy purposes. Forexample, EOAN fiber ring- 1 114 and EOAN fiber ring-2 116 may beconnected by EOAN NOC 76 without redundant or passive NOCs. Inaccordance with the present invention, EOAN system 1 may connect aplurality of fiber rings via a plurality of NOCs, but only one NOC isrequired as long as reliable high-speed data communication can bemaintained consistent with the data switching and other capabilities ofthe one NOC, etc.

In accordance with the present invention, one or more users (such asusers 120-122) in a metropolitan area may send data to each other viaseparate but connected fiber rings (such as EOAN fiber ring-1 114 andEOAN fiber ring-N 116, etc.). For example, user 120 may transmit datavia Ethernet protocol via EOAN fiber ring-1 114 to EOAN NOC 76, whichroutes the data via EOAN fiber ring-2 116 to user 122. In accordancewith the present invention, users may communicate bi-directionally witheach other across separate connected fiber rings.

FIG. 3C is a diagram illustrating an exemplary embodiment of a pluralityof municipalities connected via EOAN system 1. In accordance with thepresent invention, one or more municipalities, such as Dayton, Ohio andSpringfield, Ohio, may be connected via EOAN system 1. Preferably, EOANfiber ring-1 114 and EOAN fiber ring-N 118 are fiber optic rings thatconnect a plurality of users, facilities, and/or devices and haveproperties consistent with EOAN fiber ring 100, such as described inconjunction with FIG. 3A. In this exemplary embodiment, EOAN fiberring-1 114 is preferably connected to EOAN fiber ring-N 118 viamicrowave transceivers (such as transceivers 146-148). Preferably EOANNOC 76 is a NOC that provides data switching and management functionsand is coupled to EOAN fiber ring-1 114. ISP 14 connected to EOAN fiberring-1 114 provides utilities and services to a plurality of users andis coupled to Internet 16. Central office 12 is a central switchingoffice of a local telephone company coupled to EOAN fiber ring-1 114.EOAN NOC 117 preferably provides equivalent data switching andmanagement capabilities as EOAN NOC 76. Radio towers 156-158 preferablytransmit/receive microwave frequencies to and from users, microwavetransceivers, and/or other radio towers. Preferably, a plurality ofusers (such as users 132-136) are connected to EOAN fiber ring-1 114 anda plurality of users (such as users 138-144) are connected to EOAN fiberring-N 118. For example, user 132 and user 138 may be single locationbusinesses, while user 134 and user 140 may be main offices formulti-office businesses. Preferably, user 136 is located within thegreater metropolitan area of municipality 160 and connected to EOANfiber ring-1 114 via microwave technology in this example. Likewise,users 142-144 are located within the greater metropolitan area ofmunicipality 162 and connected to EOAN fiber ring-118 N via microwavetechnology in this example. User 136 may be a remote office affiliatedwith user 140, while users 142-144 may be remote offices affiliated withuser 134. It should be noted that remote offices may include branchoffices, home offices, etc., that may be located in a single-tenantbuilding or a multi-tenant building. Transceivers 146-154 and radiotowers 156-158 transmit/receive microwave frequencies to and from users,microwave transceivers, and/or other radio towers via a P2P or P2Mdelivery method. (In an alternate preferred embodiment, transceiver 148may be directly coupled to radio tower 156.)

As illustrated in FIG. 3C, in accordance with the present invention,users may share data communications with other users in the samemunicipality. For instance, a user (such as user 132) may send data toone or more users (such as users 134-136). User 132, which is connectedto EOAN NOC 76 via an optical network connection (e.g., fiber opticcable, fiber optic lateral and optical multiplexer or switch, etc.),transmits data via an Ethernet protocol across EOAN fiber ring-1 114 toEOAN NOC 76, which routes the data to user 134. In addition, user 132may send the same data to user 136; in this example user 132 sends datavia an Ethernet protocol across EOAN fiber ring-1 114 to EOAN NOC 76,which routes the data to radio tower 158, where the optical signals areconverted to microwave signals and transmitted to transceiver 150.Transceiver 150 converts the microwave signals to electrical signals andsends the data to user 136. Accordingly, users may communicatebi-directionally with each other on the same fiber ring.

In accordance with the present invention, users in one municipality(such as municipality 160) may also share the same data communicationswith users in another municipality (such as municipality 162). Microwavetechnology may be used to connect municipalities on separate fiber ringslocated within a certain distance of each other (wherein the certaindistance falls within the current limits of microwave technology, forexample, within 35 miles, etc.). For instance, a user in onemunicipality (such as user 132) may send data to one or more users in adifferent municipality (such as users 138-140). User 132, whichpreferably is connected to EOAN NOC 76 via an optical network connection(e.g., fiber optic cable, fiber optic lateral and optical multiplexer orswitch, etc.), transmits data via an Ethernet protocol across EOAN fiberring-1 114 to EOAN NOC 76, which routes the data via an Ethernetprotocol to transceiver 146. Transceiver 146 converts optical signals tomicrowave signals and transmits the microwave signals to transceiver148. Upon receipt of the microwave signals, transceiver 148 converts themicrowave signals back to optical signals and sends the data to EOAN NOC117, which routes the data via an Ethernet protocol to users 138-140. Inaccordance with the present invention, users may communicatebi-directionally with each other across the separate fiber optic rings.

As further illustrated in FIG. 3C, one or more users in onemunicipality, such as user 134, may send data to one or more users inremote office locations in another municipality, such as user 142-144.For example, user 134 transmits data via an Ethernet protocol acrossEOAN fiber ring-1 114 to EOAN NOC 76, which switches the data totransceiver 146, which converts optical signals to microwave signals andtransmits them to transceiver 148. Transceiver 148 receives themicrowave signals and converts them back to optical signals and sendsthe data via an Ethernet protocol to EOAN NOC 117, which routes the datato radio tower 156, where optical signals are converted to microwavesignals and transmitted to transceivers 152-154. Transceivers 152-154convert the microwave signals to electrical signals and send the datavia an Ethernet protocol to users 142-144, respectively. Accordingly,users may communicate bi-directionally with each other across separatefiber rings.

It is important to note that transceivers 146-154 and radio towers156-158 may use a P2P or P2M delivery methods. For example, radio tower158 may transmit microwave signals to a single transceiver (e.g.,transceiver 150), a single radio tower (e.g., radio tower 156), or aplurality of transceivers and/or radio towers (e.g., transceivers146-154, radio tower 156, etc.).

In accordance with the present invention, one or more users in onemunicipality, such as user 140, etc., may also place a telephone callthrough central office 12 in another municipality. For example, user 140transmits voice data (using Voice Over IP, for example) via opticalsignals across EOAN fiber ring-N 118 to EOAN NOC 117. EOAN NOC 117routes the voice data to transceiver 148, which converts optical signalsto microwave signals and transmits them to transceiver 146. Transceiver146 preferably receives the microwave signals and converts them back tooptical signals and sends the voice data to EOAN NOC 76, which convertsthe data into telecommunication protocols with a PBX switch and routesthe voice data via optical signals across EOAN fiber ring-1 114 tocentral office 12, which connects the telephone call via PSTN 50.

In alternate preferred embodiments of the present invention, one or moreusers in one municipality, such as user 140, etc., may also place atelephone call via standard telecommunication protocols through centraloffice 12 in another municipality. For instance, user 134 transmitsvoice data via standard telecommunication protocols via optical signalsacross EOAN fiber ring-N 118 to EOAN NOC 117, which routes the voicedata to transceiver 148, which converts optical signals to microwavesignals and transmits them to transceiver 146. Transceiver 146 receivesthe microwave signals and converts them back to optical signals andsends the voice data to EOAN NOC 76, which routes the voice data viatelecommunications protocols via optical signals across EOAN fiberring-1 114 to central office 12, which connects the telephone call viaPSTN 50. In such embodiments, as described earlier herein, dedicatedchannels or wavelengths may be dedicated to such telecommunicationprotocol communications with central office 12, which may serve tofacilitate the convenient implementation of voice-telephony servicesover the EOAN.

It should be noted that in an alternate embodiment of the presentinvention, an additional radio tower may be provided to extend the rangeof microwave transmissions. For instance, users 142-144 may be connectedto EOAN fiber ring-N 118 via an additional radio tower, which may act asa repeater and transmit microwave signals between radio tower 156 andtransceivers 152-154. Thus, user 138 may send data to user 142 bytransmitting data via an Ethernet protocol via EOAN fiber ring-N 118 toEOAN NOC 117, which routes optical signals to radio tower 156, where theoptical signals are converted to microwave signals and transmitted to anadditional radio tower, which may process and/or amplify the microwavesignals and send them to transceivers 152-154. Transceivers 152-154 thenconvert the microwave signals to electrical signals and sends the datavia an Ethernet protocol to users 142-144, respectively. In accordancewith the present invention, the range of microwave transmissions betweenusers may be extended via one or more radio towers functioning asrepeaters.

FIG. 3D is a diagram illustrating another exemplary embodiment of one ormore municipalities connected via EOAN system 1. In accordance with thepresent invention, one or more municipalities, such as Dayton, Ohio andCincinnati, Ohio, may be connected via EOAN system 1. Preferably EOANfiber ring-1 114 and EOAN fiber ring-N 116 are fiber optic rings thatconnect a plurality of users, facilities, and/or devices and haveproperties consistent with EOAN fiber ring 100, such as described inconjunction with FIG. 3A. It should be noted that EOAN fiber ring-1 114and EOAN fiber ring-N 116 are separate fiber optic rings and haveseparate connections to central offices (such as central office 12 andcentral office 164). Central office 12 is coupled to PSTN 50 and ISP 14and central office 164 is connected to PSTN 50 and ISP 166. ISP 14 andISP 166 are connected to Internet 16. EOAN fiber ring-1 114 ispreferably connected to EOAN fiber ring-N 116 via a long haul fiberconnection (such as long haul fiber 169, which, for example, may consistof leased and/or purchased fiber optic cable and which may haverepeaters in order to implement the long haul fiber connection).

As illustrated in FIG. 3D, long haul fiber 169 preferably provides theonly network connection between EOAN fiber ring-1 114 and EOAN fiberring-N 116. Users may communicate bi-directionally with each otheracross the separate fiber rings. Preferably EOAN NOC 76 and EOAN NOC 168are NOCs that provide data switching and management functions such aspreviously described, and are coupled to EOAN fiber ring-1 114 and EOANfiber ring-N 116, respectively. ISPs 14 and 166 provide utilities andservices to a plurality of users and are coupled to one or more NAPs.ISP 14 is connected to EOAN fiber ring-1 114 and Internet 16. ISP 166 isconnected to EOAN fiber ring-N 116 and Internet 16. Central offices 12and 164 are central switching offices of local telephone companiescoupled to EOAN fiber ring-1 114 and EOAN fiber ring-N 116,respectively. Radio towers 158 and 182 preferably transmit microwavesfrequencies to and from users, microwave transceivers, and/or otherradio towers. Preferably a plurality of users (such as users 132-136,etc.) are connected to EOAN fiber ring-1 114 and a plurality of users(such as users 170-178, etc.) are connected to EOAN fiber ring-N 116.

In accordance with the present invention, one or more users in onemunicipality, such as users 132-136, etc., may also share the same datacommunications with one or more users in another municipality, such asusers 170-176, etc., via EOAN system 1. A long haul optical networkconnection, such as long haul fiber 169, may be used to connectmunicipalities on separate fiber rings located within a certain distanceof each other (wherein the certain distance exceeds the current limitsof microwave technology, for example, about 60 miles or greater, etc.).For instance, user 132 in municipality 160 may send data to users170-172 in municipality 165. Accordingly, user 132 transmits data via anEthernet protocol across EOAN fiber ring-1 114 to EOAN NOC 76, whichroutes the data via optical signals via long haul fiber 117 to EOAN NOC168. EOAN NOC 168 transmits the data via optical signals to users170-172. In accordance with the present invention, users may communicatebi-directionally with each other across separate fiber optic rings via along haul fiber connection using an Ethernet protocol.

FIG. 3E is a diagram illustrating another exemplary embodiment of aplurality of metropolitan areas connected via EOAN system 1. Inaccordance with the present invention, a plurality of municipalities,such as New York, N.Y. and Philadelphia, Pa. and Washington, D.C., etc.,may be connected via a plurality of EOAN networks (a municipalityproviding a plurality of users, facilities, and/or devices to beconnected to the fiber optic ring, such as previously described). Forinstance, municipalities (such as municipalities 190-202, etc.) areconnected via large fiber rings to EOAN networks (such as EOAN-1 184,EOAN-2 186, EOAN-N 188, etc.). EOAN networks are components of EOANsystem 1, such as previously described in connection with FIG. 3A-3D.Preferably EOAN networks connect a plurality of municipalities (such asdescribed in FIGS. 3C and 3D), so a plurality of users may share datacommunication across multiple municipalities and regions. In suchembodiments, municipalities 190-194 are connected to EOAN-1 184,municipalities 194-198 are connected to EOAN-2 186, and municipalities198-202 are connected to EOAN-N 188, wherein municipality 194 andmunicipality 198 are coupled to a plurality of EOAN networks (e.g.,EOAN-1 184, EOAN-2 186, EOAN-N 188, etc.) and thus serve as nodes tomore than one network. In accordance with the present invention,municipalities on fiber rings may be connected to each other via aplurality of types of transmission media (such as FSO, optical signals,microwave signals, infrared light, etc.) and physical pathways (such asUTP, fiber optic cable, long haul fiber, OC-3, OC-12, etc.).

As illustrated in FIG. 3E, a plurality of municipalities may beconnected together as part of EOAN system 1. In accordance with thepresent invention, a plurality of municipalities (such as municipalities190-194) on one EOAN network (such as EOAN-1 184) may be connected to aplurality of municipalities (such as municipalities 194-198) on anotherseparate EOAN network (such as EOAN-2 186). Preferably municipalities onseparate EOAN networks may share data communications with each other aslong as one or more municipalities serve as nodes to more than one EOANnetwork in EOAN system 1. For example, municipality 194 serves as a nodefor both EOAN-1 184 and EOAN-2 186, and municipality 198 serves as anode for both EOAN-2 186 and EOAN-N 188. Thus, a plurality of users inmunicipality 190 may communicate bi-directionally with a plurality ofusers in municipality 202. Accordingly, one or more users inmunicipality 190 send data via EOAN-1 184 to EOAN NOC in municipality194, which routes data via EOAN-2 186 to EOAN NOC in municipality 196,which in turn routes data via EOAN-2 186 to EOAN NOC in municipality198, which sends data via EOAN-N 188 to EOAN NOC in municipality 202,which routes data to one or more users in municipality 202. Inaccordance with the present invention, such data communicationspreferably occur within EOAN system 1 using an Ethernet protocol.

As further illustrated in FIG. 3E, municipalities may remain connectedto each other via EOAN system 1 when a single network connection issevered. For instance, a connection (such as optical network connection204) on EOAN-2 186 may be cut, potentially severing communicationsbetween two municipalities (such as municipality 194 and municipality202). In accordance with the present invention, EOAN system 1 implementsa continuous loop network, wherein each node on the network is connectedto at least two other nodes in the network. Moreover, EOAN system 1 isconnected via a plurality of self-healing fiber optic rings, whereindata are sent in both directions simultaneously across the fiber rings.Thus, if any one connection in an EOAN system 1 is severed, it will notdisrupt data communications between nodes on the network. For example,municipality 194 connecting EOAN-1 184 and EOAN-2 186 may stillcommunicate with municipality 298 and other municipalities on EOAN-N188, such as municipalities 200-202, when optical network connection 204is severed. As will be understood based on the description herein, thisconcept of self-healing fiber rings is applicable generally to the fiberrings disclosed herein.

FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating an exemplary embodiment of thearchitecture for a Network Operations Center (NOC) for EOAN system 1. Inaccordance with the present invention, EOAN NOC 76 provides Ethernetswitching and network management functions, which will be described infurther detail below. The network architecture for EOAN NOC 76preferably includes one or more optical switches or multiplexers (suchas optical switch 206), one or more Ethernet switches (such as Ethernetswitch 208), one or more PBX switches (such as PBX switch 210), and oneor more servers (such as servers 212-214). Optical switch 206 preferablyis a Wave Division Multiplexing (WDM) or Dense Wave DivisionMultiplexing (DWDM) optical switch (such as Ciena Multiwave Metro, CienaMultiWave MetroDirector K2, LuxN WavSystem 3234, etc.), which cansupport a plurality of protocols (Ethernet, SONET, ATM, etc.) andinterface rates (OC-3, OC-12, OC-48, OC-192, etc.) on each opticalfiber. Optical switch 206, which will be described in greater detailbelow, provides a means of expanding the capabilities of fiber optictransmissions by multiplexing wavelengths of light into multiplechannels. It should be noted that optical switches, as used herein,primarily are used as bridging multiplexers to bolster bandwidth andperformance of EOAN system 1 by providing WDM or DWDM capabilities.Accordingly, the management capabilities of the optical switches, whichare typically provided by optical switch management applications (suchas LuxN OSLM, Ciena OnCenter, etc.), in preferred embodiments aregenerally limited to functions, such as monitoring data traffic, etc.Ethernet switch 208 preferably is an intelligent Ethernet switch (suchas Extreme Networks BlackDiamond 6808, Extreme Networks BlackDiamond6816, etc.), which is a Layer 2 switch that is Layer 3 aware, and isdesigned with carrier-class fault tolerance for data networks requiringscalability from 100 Mbps to 10 Gbps. PBX switch 210 preferably is aVoIP-enabled PBX switch (such as Nortel Meridian, Lucent Difinity,Inter-Tel Axxess, etc.) designed for routing voice data from users toPSTN 50 via central office 12. It should be noted that the networkmanagement application (e.g., Extreme Networks ExtremeWare, HP OpenView,etc.) provided in EOAN NOC 76 can view an optical switch managementapplication (such as LuxN OSLM, Ciena OnCenter, etc.). In accordancewith the present invention, the optical switches preferably are managedvia the optical switch management application (such as LuxN OSLM, CienaOnCenter, etc.), which may be managed on a network basis via the networkmanagement application provided in EOAN NOC 76 (thus, the variousoptical switches are centrally managed via EOAN NOC in accordance withthe present invention). Server 212 preferably is a network managementserver (such as HP NetServer, etc.) that monitors network activity andruns a network management application (such as Extreme NetworksExtremeWare, HP OpenView, etc.) for purposes of providing such centralEOAN management. Server 214 preferably is a database server running adatabase language (such as SQL, etc.) that houses the database for MANhosting over EOAN system 1. In accordance with the present invention,servers 212-214 may be combined into a single server providing the samefunctionality as server 212 and server 214 or may be separated into morethan two servers providing the same functionality as server 212 andserver 214.

In accordance with the present invention, servers 212-214 preferably arecoupled to Ethernet switch 208 via LAN cable 224 and LAN cable 226,respectively. Ethernet switch 208 preferably is connected to opticalswitch 206 via LAN cable 220 and to PBX switch 210 via LAN cable 222.LAN cables 220-226 preferably are standard LAN cables (e.g., CAT5 cablefor Ethernet, etc.). Optical switch 206 preferably is connected to EOANfiber ring 100 via one or more pairs of optical fibers (i.e., comprisinga transmitting fiber and a receiving fiber, such as fibers 216-218,etc.) from a fiber grouping (this may be a fiber optical lateral, aspreviously described). Preferably optical fibers (e.g., fibers 216-218and 248-254, etc.) are Single Mode (SM) fibers suitable for WDM and DWDMuse, such as, for example, fibers in the 1310 nm band or 1550 nm band.Preferably fiber 216 is a transmitting fiber, which transmits data viaEOAN fiber ring 100, and fiber 218 is a receiving fiber, which receivesdata via EOAN fiber ring 100. Fiber ring 100 connects a plurality ofusers, facilities, and/or devices and has the same properties such asdescribed above in conjunction with FIG. 3A. In accordance with thepresent invention, servers 212-214, PBX switch 210, Ethernet switch 208and optical switch 206 may communicate bi-directionally with each other.

As will be understood by one skilled in the art, fiber optic cable useslight pulses to carry data. Preferably, optical switches can multiplexlight waves into a plurality of channels (e.g., 40 channels), whereineach channel has a different frequency/wavelength and transmits datawithin specified GHz intervals. With such WDM or DWDM optical switches,each channel can be split into multiple managed groups, which can carrydata aggregating at rates of up to 10 Gbps. Thus, in accordance with thepresent invention, for example, EOAN NOC 76 can support 960 separateconnections per each fiber pair at data rates between 100 Mbps to 2.4Gbps when implementing a DWDM optical switch, such as LuxN WavSystem3234, Ciena Multiwave MetroDirector K2, etc.

As illustrated in FIG. 4, EOAN NOC 76 is coupled to EOAN fiber ring 100,which in turn is coupled to central office 12 and ISP 14. Preferably ISP14 provides utilities and services to a plurality of users, and iscoupled to Internet 16 and one or more NAPs on a digital backbone of theInternet. Optical switch 206 in EOAN NOC 76 is connected via fibers216-218 to EOAN fiber ring 100, which may transmit data at rates inexcess of 1.6 Terabits per second per pair of fiber. Preferably centraloffice 12 and a plurality of users (e.g., user 228-230) are coupled toEOAN fiber ring 100 such as previously described: Central office 12 is acentral switching office of a local telephone company and is connectedto PSTN 50.

In accordance with the present invention, EOAN system 1 provides networkmanagement, QoS standards, and network security through EOAN NOC 76.Network management is maintained via server 212 and Ethernet switch 208.As noted above, server 212 (such as HP NetServer, etc.) monitors networkactivity via a network management application (such as Extreme NetworksExtremeWare, HP OpenView, etc.), which preferably uses a Simple NetworkManagement Protocol (SNMP) type protocol and provides customer data andservice management, and other network capabilities (e.g., switchmanagement, status monitoring, port statistics, network audit logs,event databases, software integration, network security, networkmodeling, etc.). Server 212 manages Ethernet switch 208, which is anintelligent switch that may be managed directly via a terminal at server212 or remotely via a plurality of remote access methods, such asTelnet, SSH2, SNMP, browser-based, device management software (e.g.,Extreme Networks ExtremeWare Vista), etc. Thus, from EOAN NOC 76 it ispossible to direct data traffic to specific nodes, control potentialcollisions, and provide maintenance to all parts of EOAN system 1,including the plurality of optical switches provided in EOAN system 1.It should be noted that Ethernet switches at customer sites, such asEthernet switches 236-238, etc., are also intelligent switches that maybe managed directly via a terminal or remotely via a plurality of remoteaccess methods, such as Telnet, SSH2, SNMP, browser-based, devicemanagement software (e.g., Extreme Networks ExtremeWare Vista), etc.

Because the Ethernet switches (such as Ethernet switches 208 and236-238, etc.) are intelligent switches with policy-based QoS, they canreserve and/or limit bandwidth for specified categories of data (e.g.,voice, video, etc.) and/or specified categories of applications (e.g.,video applications, database applications, etc.). The Ethernet switchesperform these functions by applying priority parameters of themanagement software application (e.g., Extreme Networks ExtremeWare,etc.). The priority parameters determine how an Ethernet switch (such asEthernet switch 208, etc.) allocates bandwidth and data traffic for eachhardware queue on each physical port. For example, data may be assigneda priority status for Ethernet switch 208, so that one type of data(such as voice data, etc.) may be given precedence over another type ofdata (such as e-mail, etc.) placed in a hardware queue on a physicalport. When a plurality of hardware queues on the same physical port arecontending for transmission, Ethernet switch 208 accordingly prioritizesbandwidth use and data traffic according to the priority parameters.

It has been found to be advantageous to the establishment andmaintenance of QoS for EOAN system 1 to use a consistent brand or typeof equipment and network management applications (e.g., Extreme NetworksBlackDiamond 6816, Alpine 3804, ExtremeWare, etc.) for managing allEthernet switches throughout EOAN system 1. The use of suchcommon-management equipment and application potentially reduces theincompatibilities between different protocols, interfaces, and systemrequirements by securing consistently terminated end points. While thisis recommended, it is not required for the proper function of EOANsystem 1.

In accordance with the present invention, EOAN NOC 76 also monitors EOANfiber ring 100 and each node in EOAN system 1 for network breaks andfaults. Thus, if a break in the fiber ring occurs, then EOAN NOC 76 isnot only aware of the break, but can also maintain network connectivitythroughout. EOAN system 1 until the break is repaired because data istransmitted across the fiber ring simultaneously in both directions. Forexample, if EOAN NOC 76 is sending data to users 228-230 in EOAN system1 and a break in EOAN fiber ring 100 occurs, data may continue to besent to and from users 228-230 because if a break occurs on one side ofEOAN fiber ring 100, then the data may reach users 228-230 via the otherside of EOAN fiber ring 100. Moreover, EOAN NOC 76 can continue tomanage optical switches and Ethernet switches throughout EOAN system 1as long as data traffic is not entirely cut off from any of the nodes.

It is important to note that in accordance with the present inventionEOAN system 1 is a private network. Therefore, network security ismaintained because EOAN system 1 does not provide direct access topublic networks. Accordingly, all data and data transmissions (includingdata transmissions being sent to PSTN 50, Internet 16, etc.) are managedby (and pass through) EOAN NOC 76. Thus, data may be transmittedbi-directionally between users 228-230 in a secure environment withoutmodems or routers. Since EOAN system 1 does not provide direct access topublic networks and uses a plurality of transmission media, it isexceptionally difficult to break network security. For example, it isdifficult to intercept a wireless transmission path (such as FSOtransmissions, microwave transmissions, etc.) of EOAN system 1 becausesuch methods require knowing the exact frequency and encryption codes ofthe transmission (both of which are proprietary). It is also difficult,for example, to tap fiber optic cables of EOAN system 1 without beingdetected because once the physical pathway is severed the transmissionof optical signals is corrupted.

Furthermore, in accordance with the present invention, EOAN system 1 mayprovide Virtual LAN (VLAN) and Virtual MAN (VMAN) environments for usersby tagging all data from all user locations, such as an office, lab,etc., with a unique frame tag. Preferably VLANs are managed with networkmanagement protocols via a network management server (e.g., server 212,etc.) of EOAN NOC 76. Moreover, by connecting several VLANs, EOAN system1 may also provide a VMAN environment, wherein several VLANs may sharethe same but separate unified network.

As further illustrated in FIG. 4 in accordance with the presentinvention, users 228-230 are also coupled to EOAN fiber ring 100. Users228-230 are preferably businesses and may include users, servers,switches, telephones, and/or other devices necessary for voice and datacommunications in a LAN. User 228 is coupled via LAN cable 240 toEthernet switch 236, which is coupled via LAN cable 244 to opticalswitch 232, which is connected via fibers 248 and 252. User 230 iscoupled via LAN cable 242 to Ethernet switch 238, which is coupled viaLAN cable 246 to optical switch 234, which is connected via fibers 250and 254 (e.g., a lateral fiber arrangement, such as previouslydescribed). Preferably Ethernet switches 236-238 are Ethernet switches(such as Extreme Networks Summit 4, etc.) that provide Ethernetconnectivity at a plurality of high-speed rates (such as Fast Ethernet,Gigabit Ethernet, 10 Gigabit Ethernet, etc.). Preferably opticalswitches 232-234 are either WDM or DWDM optical switches (such as CienaMultiWave Metro One, etc.) designed for customer premise and short-haulfiber ring applications. Preferably LAN cables 240-246 are standard LANcables (e.g., CAT5 cable for Ethernet, etc.). Preferably fibers 248-250and 216 are transmitting fibers, which transmit data via EOAN fiber ring100. Likewise, fibers 252-254 and 218 are preferably receiving fibers,which receive data via EOAN fiber ring 100.

As further illustrated in FIG. 4, in preferred embodiments a particularuser (such as user 228, etc.) may transmit data to one or more users(such as user 230, etc.) via one or more dedicated channels via EOANsystem 1 (where, for example, such one or more dedicated channels areassigned to the particular user). For example, user 228 may transmitdata via EOAN fiber ring 100 and EOAN NOC 76 to user 230. In accordancewith the present invention, user 228 sends data via LAN cable 240 toEthernet switch 236, which routes data via LAN cable 244 to opticalswitch 232, which converts electrical signals to optical signals,multiplexes the optical signals, and sends the data to fiber optic ring100 via a dedicated channel on transmitting fiber 248. Fiber optic ring100 routes the data via a dedicated channel on receiving fiber 218 tooptical switch 206 in EOAN NOC 76. Optical switch 206 de-multiplexes theoptical signals, converts the optical signals back to electricalsignals, and sends the data via LAN cable 220 to Ethernet switch 208,which in turn routes data via LAN cable 220 back to optical switch 206,which converts electrical signals to optical signals, multiplexes theoptical signals, and sends the data via a dedicated channel ontransmitting fiber 216 via fiber optic ring 100. Fiber optic ring 100routes the data via a dedicated channel on receiving fiber 254 tooptical switch 234, which de-multiplexes the optical signals, convertsthe optical signals to electrical signals and transmits the data via LANcable 246 to Ethernet switch 238, which routes data via LAN cable 242 touser 230. In accordance with the present invention, users maycommunicate bi-directionally with each other via dedicated channels.Thus, particular users may be assigned one or more particular channels,wherein other users may not be assigned a particular channel (the datafor such other users may be segregated such as by VLAN/VMAN-type frametags and the like).

As further illustrated in FIG. 4, Ethernet switches may be managed fromEOAN NOC 76. Preferably a system administrator at EOAN NOC 76 canmonitor the status and functions of each Ethernet switch with thenetwork management application (e.g., Extreme Networks ExtremeWare, HPOpenView, etc.) provided in EOAN NOC 76 by viewing logs, runningdiagnostics, etc. Ethernet switches at the client site (e.g., Ethernetswitches 236-238) may be implemented, for example, to send switchinformation at pre-determined intervals (e.g., every 10 seconds, 20seconds, etc.) to server 212 in EOAN NOC 76, which maintains data logson switch and network performance for each node in EOAN system 1. Forinstance, Ethernet switch 236 routes data (such as switch information,etc.) via LAN cable 244 to optical switch 232, which converts electricalsignals to optical signals, multiplexes the optical signals, and sendsthe data to fiber optic ring 100 via, for example, a dedicated channelon transmitting fiber 248. Fiber optic ring 100 routes the data via adedicated channel on receiving fiber 218 to optical switch 206, whichde-multiplexes the optical signals, converts optical signals back toelectrical signals, and sends the data via LAN cable 220 to Ethernetswitch 208, which routes data via LAN cable 224 to server 212.Accordingly, server 212 processes the data by running a suitable networkmanagement application (e.g., Extreme Networks ExtremeWare, HP OpenView,etc.), which provides users (such as system administrators, etc.) withthe capability to monitor switch performance by viewing logs, runningdiagnostics, etc.

In another example in accordance with the present invention, Ethernetswitch 208 in EOAN NOC 76 can manage network traffic and request datadirectly from Ethernet switch 232. Server 212 may send requests for datavia LAN cable 224 to Ethernet switch 208, which routes data via LANcable 220 to optical switch 206, which converts electrical signals tooptical signals, multiplexes the optical signals, and sends the datavia, for example, a dedicated channel on transmitting fiber 216 viafiber optic ring 100. Fiber optic ring 100 routes the data via adedicated channel on receiving fiber 252 to optical switch 232, whichde-multiplexes the optical signals, converts optical signals toelectrical signals and transmits the data via LAN cable 244 to Ethernetswitch 236, which aggregates data and routes data back to server 212 inaccordance with the present invention.

As noted above, EOAN NOC 76 may also manage nodes in EOAN system 1remotely. Accordingly, Ethernet switch 208 can request data fromEthernet switch 238 remotely. For example, a system administrator mayuse a network management browser-type application (e.g., ExtremeWareVista, etc.) to monitor the performance of specific switches in EOANsystem 1. The system administrator contacts server 212 remotely via aplurality of remote access methods, such as Telnet, SSH2, SNMP,browser-based, device management software (e.g., Extreme NetworksExtremeWare Vista), etc. and sends a request for data via LAN cable 224to Ethernet switch 208, which routes data via LAN cable 220 to opticalswitch 206, which converts electrical signals to optical signals,multiplexes the optical signals, and sends the data via, for example, adedicated channel on transmitting fiber 216 via fiber optic ring 100.Fiber optic ring 100 routes the data via a dedicated channel onreceiving fiber 254 to optical switch 234, which de-multiplexes theoptical signals, converts optical signals to electrical signals andtransmits the data via LAN cable 246 to Ethernet switch 238, which callsdata and routes data back to server 212 in accordance with the presentinvention.

It should be noted that in accordance with the present inventionend-to-end Ethernet connectivity is maintained because EOAN fiber ring100 and the optical switches desirably are Layer 1 specific andtransparent within the system. Thus, as noted above, the opticalswitches (e.g., optical switches 206 and 232-234) preferably are used tosimply transmit raw bits over a dedicated channel at the physical layer.

As further illustrated in FIG. 4, a user (such as user 228, etc.) mayplace a telephone call via, for example, a dedicated channel via EOANsystem 1. For example, in order for user 228 to make a telephone call,user 228 sends voice data via LAN cable 240 to Ethernet switch 236,which routes the voice data via LAN cable 244 to optical switch 232.Optical switch 232 converts electrical signals to optical signals,multiplexes the optical signals, and transmits the voice data via adedicated channel on transmitting fiber 248 via EOAN fiber ring 100,which sends the voice data via a dedicated channel on receiving fiber218 to optical switch 206 in EOAN NOC 76. Optical switch 206 in turnde-multiplexes the optical signals, converts the optical signals toelectrical signals, and transmits the voice data via LAN cable 220 toEthernet switch 208, which routes voice data via LAN cable 222 to PBXswitch 210. PBX switch 210 then converts the voice data using a suitabletelecommunication protocol and sends the voice data via LAN cable 222 toEthernet switch 208, which routes the voice data via LAN cable 220 tooptical switch 206, which converts electrical signals to opticalsignals, multiplexes the optical signals, and transmits the voice datapreferably via a dedicated channel on transmitting fiber 216 via fiberoptic ring 100, which transmits the voice data in accordance with thetelecommunication protocol to central office 12, which de-multiplexesthe optical signals, converts the optical signals to electrical signals,and connects the telephone call via PSTN 50 (the use of thetelecommunication protocol and dedicated channels of fiber optic ring100 for such purposes has been previously described).

In an alternate embodiment of the present invention, PBX switch 210 mayalso be coupled directly to central office 12 via a fiber optic cable orother connection. Thus, PBX switch 210 may route voice data to centraloffice 12 without transmitting the voice data across EOAN fiber ring100. For instance, for user 228 to make a telephone call, user 228 maytransmit voice data to PBX switch 210 in accordance with the descriptionin the previous example. Upon receipt of the voice data, PBX switch 210then converts the voice data using a suitable telecommunication protocoland routes the voice data in accordance with the telecommunicationprotocol to central office 12, which connects the telephone call viaPSTN 50.

In accordance with the present invention, the data of a plurality ofusers may be sent over the same or dedicated channels while keeping thedata of these users separate. Through the management system in EOAN NOC76, EOAN system 1 can provide consistent QoS and Class of Service (COS)to customers and users, securing transmission quality and bandwidth forapplications, such as IP multicasting, IP unicasting, VoIP, streamingvideo, etc.

FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating an exemplary embodiment of a clientarchitecture for an EOAN system 1. In accordance with the presentinvention, a plurality of users (such as user 228, users 256-258, etc.)may connect to EOAN fiber ring 100 via a network architecture thatincludes a plurality of transmission methods, such as FSO transmissions,microwave signals, fiber optic cables, etc. EOAN NOC 76 provides dataswitching and management functions as described above in conjunctionwith FIG. 4. Fiber ring 100 connects a plurality of users, facilities,and/or devices and has the properties such as described in conjunctionwith FIG. 3A. Users (such as user 228, users 256-258, etc.) arepreferably single businesses and may include users, servers, switches,telephones, and/or other devices necessary for voice and datacommunications in a LAN or other data network. Such equipment mayinclude legacy technology.

In accordance with the present invention, a plurality of datatransmission equipment, such as FSO devices (e.g., FSO 276-278, etc.)and transceivers (e.g., transceivers 284-286, etc.), may be implementedat the client's site in order to provide data communications betweenusers, facilities, and/or devices. Preferably FSO 276-278 are either P2Por P2M laser devices that support Ethernet signaling natively andprovide a continuous optical connection. Transceivers 284-286 preferablytransmit/receive microwave signals to and from users, transceivers,and/or other radio towers via P2P or P2M delivery methods. Opticalswitches 232 and 260-262 preferably are WDM or DWDM optical switches(such as Ciena Multiwave Metro, etc.), which can support a plurality ofprotocols (Ethernet, SONET, ATM, etc.) and interface rates (OC-3, OC-12,OC-48, OC-192, etc.) on each optical fiber. Ethernet switches 236,264-266 and 280-282 preferably are intelligent Ethernet switches (suchas Extreme Networks Summit 4, etc.), which are Layer 2 switches that areLayer 3 aware, and designed for customer premise and short-haul fiberring applications. Fibers, optical switch and Ethernet switches have thesame properties as described in conjunction with FIG. 4. Servers 268-270(such as Unix server, Windows NT, Linux, etc.) preferably control andmanage the transceivers. LAN cables 240, 244, 296-306, 314-318, and 322preferably are standard LAN cables (e.g., CAT5 cable for Ethernet,etc.). Furthermore, as noted in conjunction with FIG. 4, Ethernetswitches at client sites, such as Ethernet switches 236-238, etc., maybe managed directly via a terminal or remotely via a plurality of remoteaccess methods, such as Telnet, SSH2, SNMP, browser-based, devicemanagement software (e.g., Extreme Networks ExtremeWare Vista), etc.

In order for one or more users (such as user 228, users 256-258, etc.)to connect via optical fiber to EOAN fiber ring 100, the clientarchitecture preferably includes one or more Ethernet switches (such asEthernet switches 236, 264-266, etc.), one or more optical switches(such as optical switches 232 and 260-263, etc.), and a plurality ofnetwork cabling (such as LAN cables, optical fibers, etc.). For example,user 228 requires at a minimum Ethernet switch 236, LAN cable 240,optical switch 232, and fibers 248 and 252 to connect to EOAN fiber ring100. It should be noted that optical switches 232 and 260-262 areconnected to EOAN fiber ring 100 via one or more pairs of optical fibersfrom a fiber grouping (e.g., a fiber optical lateral arrangement, suchas previously described).

In accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention,users may communicate bi-directionally with each other (i.e., exchangedata, send e-mail, make telephone calls, etc.) through EOAN fiber ring100 via fiber optic transmission media, such as described earlier.

As illustrated in FIG. 5, in accordance with an alternate preferredembodiment of the present invention, client architecture of EOAN systemmay connect to one or more fiber optic rings via FSO technology. Inorder for one or more users (such as user 256) to connect via FSOtechnology, the client architecture preferably includes one or moreEthernet switches (such as Ethernet switches 264 and 280), one or moreoptical switches (such as optical switch 260), a plurality of servers(such as servers 268-270), a plurality of transceivers (such astransceivers 272-274), a plurality of FSO devices (such as FSO 276-278),and a plurality of network cabling (such as LAN cables 300-306, etc.).As will be apparent to one skilled in the art, servers (the serversprimarily existing to service the transceivers and FSO devices, as willbe understood by those of skill in the art), transceivers, and FSOdevices must be implemented in pairs in accordance with the presentinvention. For example, user 256 may be connected via LAN cable 314 toEthernet switch 280, which is connected via LAN cable 302 to server 270,which is coupled via LAN cable 306 to transceiver 274. Transceiver 274is connected via cable 310 to FSO 278, which transmits/receives opticalsignals 312 to and from FSO 276, which is coupled via cable 308 totransceiver 272, which is coupled via LAN cable 304 to server 268, whichin turn is coupled via LAN cable 300 to Ethernet switch 264, which isconnected via LAN cable 296 to optical switch 260, which is connectedvia optical fibers 288 and 292 to EOAN fiber ring 100. In accordancewith the present invention, users may communicate bi-directionally witheach other via, for example, dedicated channels via FSO technology.

It should be noted that in a preferred embodiment of the presentinvention, a server (e.g., server 270), transceiver (e.g., transceiver274), and FSO device (e.g., FSO 278) may be integrated in a plurality ofcombinations as proprietary equipment (such as Terabeam models 4200,5200, 6200, etc.). Thus, network cabling, such as cables 308-310, mayinclude cabling for proprietary equipment (such as USB, serial,Ethernet, etc.). What is important is that, in accordance with suchembodiments, a FSO link is provided to connect a user such as user 256to the EOAN system.

As further illustrated in FIG. 5, in accordance with an alternatepreferred embodiment of the present invention, a client architecture ofan EOAN system may connect to one or more fiber optic rings viamicrowave technology. In order for one or more users (such as user 258)to connect via microwave signals to EOAN fiber ring 100, the clientarchitecture preferably includes one or more optical switches (such asoptical switch 262), one or more Ethernet switches (such as Ethernetswitch 266 and 282), two or more microwave transceivers (such astransceivers 284-286), and a plurality of network cabling (such as LANcables 298 and 318, etc.). For example, user 258 may be connected viaLAN cable 316 to Ethernet switch 282, which is coupled via LAN cable 322to transceiver 286. Transceiver 286 transmits/receives microwave signalsto and from transceiver 284, which is connected via LAN cable 318 toEthernet switch 266, which is connected via LAN cable 298 to opticalswitch 262, which is coupled via fibers 290 and 294 to EOAN fiber ring100. In accordance with the present invention, users may communicatebi-directionally with each other via, for example, dedicated channelsvia microwave technology.

In accordance with the present invention, users may communicatebi-directionally with each other (i.e., exchange data, send e-mail, maketelephone calls, etc.) through EOAN fiber ring 100 via FSO devices. Forinstance, in order for user 228 to transmit data to user 256, user 228preferably sends data via LAN cable 240 to Ethernet switch 236, whichroutes data via LAN cable 244 to optical switch 232, which convertselectrical signals to optical signals, multiplexes the optical signals,and sends the data via, for example, a dedicated channel on transmittingfiber 248 via fiber optic ring 100. Fiber optic ring 100 routes theoptical signals via a dedicated channel on receiving fiber 218 to EOANNOC 76, which routes the data according in accordance with operationssuch described above in conjunction with FIG. 4. EOAN NOC 76 routes theoptical signals via, for example, a dedicated channel on transmittingfiber 216 via EOAN fiber ring 100, which sends the optical signals tooptical switch 260 via, for example, a dedicated channel on receivingfiber 292. Optical switch 260 de-multiplexes the optical signals,converts the optical signals to electrical signals, and sends the datavia LAN cable 296 to Ethernet switch 264, which routes the data via LANcable 300 to server 268, which sends data via LAN cable 304 totransceiver 272, transmits data via network cabling 308 to FSO 276,which transmits optical signals 312 to FSO 278, which then sends thedata via network cabling 310 to transceiver 274, which transmits datavia LAN cable 306 to server 270, which sends data via LAN cable 302 toEthernet switch 280, which routes data via LAN cable 314 to user 256.

In accordance with the present invention, users may communicatebi-directionally with each other (i.e., exchange data, send e-mail, maketelephone calls, etc.) through EOAN fiber ring 100 via microwavetechnology. For instance, in order for user 228 to transmit data to user258, user 228 preferably sends data via LAN cable 240 to Ethernet switch236, which routes data via LAN cable 244 to optical switch 232, whichconverts electrical signals to optical signals, multiplexes the opticalsignals, and sends the data via, for example, a dedicated channel ontransmitting fiber 248 via fiber optic ring 100. Fiber optic ring 100routes the optical signals via a dedicated channel on receiving fiber218 to EOAN NOC 76, which routes the data according in accordance withoperations such as described above in conjunction with FIG. 4. EOAN NOC76 routes the optical signals via, for example, a dedicated channel ontransmitting fiber 216 via EOAN fiber ring 100, which sends the opticalsignals to optical switch 262 via a dedicated channel on receiving fiber294. Optical switch 262 de-multiplexes the optical signals, converts theoptical signals to electrical signals, and sends the data via LAN cable298 to Ethernet switch 266, which routes the data via LAN cable 318 totransceiver 284, which converts optical signals to microwave signals andtransmits the data via microwave signals 320 to transceiver 286, whichconverts microwave signals to optical signals and sends the data via LANcable 322 to Ethernet switch 282, which in turn routes data via LANcable 316 to user 258.

As further illustrated in FIG. 5, one or more users (such as user 228,etc.) may transmit data to one or more users (such as user 258, etc.)via, for example, dedicated channels via EOAN system 1. For example,user 228 may transmit data to users 256-258, and user 256 may transmitdata to user 228 and 258, and user 258 may transmit data to user 228 anduser 256. In accordance with the present invention, users maycommunicate bi-directionally with each other via, for example, dedicatedchannels via a plurality of technologies on EOAN system 1(alternatively, VLAN/VMAN frame tags and the like may be utilized tosegregate user data, while also implementing EOAN system 1 with aplurality of types of transmission types for connecting remote users tothe fiber optic ring of the EOAN system, etc.).

It should be noted that while EOAN system 1 can involve the exchange ofdigital data at 100 Mbps, 1 Gbps, and 10 Gbps, EOAN system 1 can alsouse other, slower data rates (e.g., 1200 bps, 2400 bps, 9600 bps, 14.4Kbps, etc.). Thus, EOAN system 1 is not limited to high-speed datarates, but can also communicate at data rates commensurate with the typeof data being transmitted/received, the type of service being provided,the quality of service needed, etc.

Although the invention has been described in conjunction with specificpreferred and other embodiments, it is evident that many substitutions,alternatives and variations will be apparent to those skilled in the artin light of the foregoing description. Accordingly, the invention isintended to embrace all of the alternatives and variations that fallwithin the spirit and scope of the appended claims. For example, itshould be understood that, in accordance with the various alternativeembodiments described herein, various systems, and uses and methodsbased on such systems, may be obtained. The various refinements andalternative and additional features also described may be combined toprovide additional advantageous combinations and the like in accordancewith the present invention. Also as will be understood by those skilledin the art based on the foregoing description, various aspects of thepreferred embodiments may be used in various subcombinations to achieveat least certain of the benefits and attributes described herein, andsuch subcombinations also are within the scope of the present invention.All such refinements, enhancements and further uses of the presentinvention are within the scope of the present invention.

1. An method for operating an Ethernet Optical Area Network (“EOAN”)extending over one or more metropolitan areas, comprising the steps of:providing a fiber optic ring; providing at least a first user facilitycoupled to the fiber optic ring, wherein the first user facility iscoupled to the fiber optic ring via first and second Ethernet switches,first and second wireless transceivers and a first opticalswitch/multiplexer, wherein the first user facility is connected to thefirst Ethernet switch, and the first Ethernet switch is connected to thefirst wireless transceiver; communicating signals wirelessly between thefirst wireless transceiver and the second wireless transceiver, whereinthe second wireless transceiver is connected to the second Ethernetswitch, the second Ethernet switch is connected to the first opticalswitch/multiplexer, and the first optical switch/multiplexer isconnected to the fiber optic ring; providing at least a second userfacility coupled to the fiber optic ring, wherein the second userfacility is coupled to the fiber optic ring via third and fourthEthernet switches, third and fourth wireless transceivers and a secondoptical switch/multiplexer, wherein the second user facility isconnected to the third Ethernet switch, and the third Ethernet switch isconnected to the third wireless transceiver; communicating signalswirelessly between the third wireless transceiver and the fourthwireless transceiver, wherein the fourth wireless transceiver isconnected to the fourth Ethernet switch, and the fourth Ethernet switchis connected to the second optical switch/multiplexer, and the secondoptical switch/multiplexer is connected to the fiber optic ring;coupling network management control information via a network operationcenter (“NOC”) to and from the fiber optic ring, wherein the NOC iscoupled to the fiber optic ring via a third optical switch/multiplexerand a fifth Ethernet switch, wherein a server is connected to the fifthEthernet switch, the first Ethernet switch is connected to the thirdoptical switch/multiplexer, and the third optical switch/multiplexer isconnected to the fiber optic ring; wherein the NOC includes a networkmanagement application running on the server for remotely managing theEOAN, the method further comprising the step of providing networkmanagement control information to the first, second, third, fourth andfifth Ethernet switches, wherein data is communicated between the firstand second user facilities via a communication path directed by thefirst, second, third, fourth and fifth Ethernet switches based on theprovided network management control information, wherein end-to-endEthernet data communications are provided between the first and secondfacilities using an Ethernet protocol.
 2. The method of claim 1, whereinthe NOC sends network management commands to the Ethernet switches,wherein the network management commands allocate bandwidth between typesof data communications over the fiber optic ring.
 3. The method of claim2, wherein voice communications are given a higher priority for datatransmission over the fiber optic ring as compared to computer datacommunications.
 4. The method of claim 3, wherein a predetermined levelof Quality of Service (QoS) is provided for voice communications overthe fiber optic ring.
 5. The method of claim 1, wherein data istransmitted through the fiber optic ring using a plurality ofwavelengths of light, wherein each wavelength provides a channel fordata transmission via the fiber optic ring.
 6. The method of claim 1,wherein data communications from the first user facility to the seconduser facility are routed to the NOC via the fiber optic ring andsubsequently routed to the second user facility from the NOC via thefiber optic ring.
 7. The method of claim 1, wherein voice datacommunications are transmitted via the fiber optic ring, wherein aparticular voice data communication is transmitted from the first userfacility to the NOC via an Ethernet protocol, wherein the NOC processesthe particular voice data communication in accordance with atelecommunications protocol, wherein the NOC transmits the particularvoice data communication to a telephone company central office, whereinthe telephone company central office connects the particular voice datacommunication to a remote user facility.
 8. The method of claim 7,wherein the NOC transmits the particular voice data communication to thetelephone company central office via a communication facility separatefrom the fiber optic ring.
 9. The method of claim 7, wherein the NOCtransmits the particular voice data communication to the telephonecompany central office via the fiber optic ring.
 10. The method of claim9, wherein data is transmitted through the fiber optic ring using aplurality of wavelengths of light, wherein each wavelength provides achannel for data transmission via the fiber optic ring, wherein one ormore predetermined channels for data transmission are dedicated forcommunications with the telephone company central office via the fiberoptic ring.
 11. The method of claim 10, wherein at least a first channelfor data transmission via the fiber optic ring is dedicated forcommunications with the telephone company central office via atelecommunications protocol, wherein at least a second channel for datatransmission via the fiber optic ring is dedicated for communicationsbetween user facilities or other facilities coupled to the fiber opticring via an Ethernet protocol.
 12. The method of claim 1, wherein theEOAN comprises a plurality of fiber optic rings that are interconnected.13. The method of claim 12, wherein at least a first fiber optic ring isinterconnected with a second fiber optic ring, wherein the first fiberoptic ring is coupled to user facilities and other facilities in a firstmunicipality, and wherein the second fiber optic ring is coupled to userfacilities and other facilities in a second municipality.
 14. The methodof claim 13, wherein a NOC coupled to the first fiber optic ringcontrols routing of data communications via the first and second fiberoptic rings.
 15. The method of claim 13, wherein data communicationsoccur within and between the first and second municipalities inaccordance with an Ethernet protocol.
 16. The method of claim 12,wherein the first fiber optic ring is interconnected with the secondfiber optic ring via a common NOC, a long-haul fiber connection, amicrowave-based connection, or a free space optic connection.
 17. Themethod of claim 1, wherein the first user transmits data to the fiberoptic ring at least in part using a free space optic data transmission,wherein the second user transmits data to the fiber optic ring at leastin part using a microwave data transmission, wherein a third usertransmits data to the fiber optic ring at least in part using a fiberoptic data transmission but not a free space optic data transmission ora microwave data transmission.
 18. The method of claim 1, wherein thefiber optic ring comprises one or more pairs of fiber optics, wherein afirst fiber of at least one pair of fibers transmits data in bothdirections around the fiber optic ring, wherein a second fiber of the atleast one pair of fibers transmits in both directions around the fiberoptic ring opposite the first direction.
 19. The method of claim 18,wherein data transmissions may occur via the first direction or thesecond direction, wherein a redundant path for data transmissions viathe fiber optic ring is provided.
 20. The method of claim 18, whereinthe fiber optic ring comprises a self-healing fiber optic ring.